It’s time for St. Tropez Yacht Week, or as the French call it, Les Voiles de St. Tropez. This regatta is considered the closing party of St. Tropez’ season. What a way to go out, too, as yachts from all over the world gather in St. Tropez from September 22 to October 2. And you know that boat people and party people are synonymous. So if you’re looking for a good time filled with events, parties, dinners, and debauchery, Les Voiles is for you.
The Details
Les Voiles de St. Tropez is one of the most famous events the tiny resort town has to offer. Whether you own, race, or just admire yachts, St. Tropez Yacht Week is not-to-miss. Sure, the area’s indulgences, like cocktails at the VIP Room, shopping for a customized sandals at Place des Lices, may be a distraction. But it will be hard to peel your eyes from the excitement of the largest yacht-racing event in the world.
Les Voiles is two weeks of regattas taking over the tony French fishing village. It’s the one time a year that the whole of St. Tropez pays tribute to its maritime roots. From around the globe, more than 300 boats are drawn to the town, crewed by about 4,000 sailors. The first part of the rendezvous hosts 250 smaller classic and modern boats up to 60 feet. To close out the festivities, about 50 maxi yachts, including ultra-moderns and J-Class beauties, vie for the coveted Rolex trophy.
The Scene
The annual regatta offers a different vibe to the St. Tropez scene. Boating and rigging enthusiasts bring a passion for yachting into the mix. (Which is always fun.) And, don’t worry, Hollywood stars, famous politicians, and billionaires still love to visit. They’re just partying on yachts, as well as in town.
In fact, the tradition of festivities is integral to the race itself. The winners of the first race in 1981 celebrated with a dinner at Le Club 55. Victors and runners-up partied all night. Nowadays, the spirit of teamwork and celebration is even more magnified. Each night after racing, sailors return to land and join the crowds of people enjoying weeklong beach parties and salon areas with music.
So, with fall fast approaching, what better way to say goodbye to summer than with a visit to Les Voiles. For good views of the yachts bearing down on each other, grab a port-side table and order a glass of chilled rosé. Or attend one of your invite-only receptions in the streets of old St. Tropez. For full-on immersion, rent your own villa or yacht and take in the last vestiges of the season with a maritime tribute all your own.
